Multiple component confectionery delivery product and method for delivery

ABSTRACT

A confectionery product for selective dispensing of a flowable edible liquid confection from a compressible liquid confection chamber through a nozzle integrated into a collar that sealing engages the compressible chamber, establishes a seat for a solid confectionery product, and contains and integrated nozzle that is disposed adjacent at least a portion of the solid confectionery product whereupon upon compression of the chamber, liquid confection is dispensed onto the solid confectionery product surface and a solid confectionery product cover which when engaged with the collar seals the nozzle to prevent further dispensing of the liquid confection.

I. FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates to a novelty confectionery product combining acompressible flavored liquid chamber and a co-aligned solidconfectionery food product affixed to a mounting cap that is secured toand covers the liquid chamber, supports the solid confectionery productand incorporates an offset, flavored liquid dispensing nozzle forapplication of the flavored liquid to the solid confectionery productupon compression of the chamber.

II. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Novelty candy products that include a plurality of confections havegrown in popularity. Confectionery products, packaging, and resultingnovel methods of consumption, have evolved to appeal to consumersdesiring co-packaged confectionery that incorporates multiple flavorsand textures.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,993,870, Hoeting et al., FIGS. 7-10, illustrates aconfectionery storing device having a handle and a confection at one endof the handle and a particulate edible coating stored within the devicewhich can be manipulated to bring the particulate edible coatingmaterial into contact with the surface of the confection to coat theconfection.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,324,527, Coleman, depicts a confectionery dispensingdevice having a lollipop with apertures mounted on a hollow tubularmember through which liquid confectionery stored in a reservoir isdispensed by a lever and plunger mechanism.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,187,350, Gallart et al., describes a hard candyconfectionery into which a cavity is formed and a second particulatecandy is sealed, wherein the consumer breaks the first hard candy toaccess the compartment housing the second candy for consumption.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,187,352, Crosbie, illustrates a candy-holding andliquid-dispensing apparatus, wherein the candy is supported on apivoting candy holder coupled to the reservoir containing the liquid,and the liquid may be sprayed from the liquid reservoir directly intothe mouth of the person to provide a cooling effect after consuming theassociated hot-flavored candy.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,884,447, Baker, depicts a confectionery productcomprising a handle portion, a body portion and a container, with aflowable confectionery disposed therein. The confectionery is shapedwith human-like features.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,660,316, Hart et al., describes a two-piece candyhousing combining a hard candy mounted on a handle and a cover housing aliquid reservoir with a nipple that can be removed from the hard candyand applied to the candy.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,279,233, Cameron, illustrates a refillable food tankattached to a feeding spoon. The food tank is designed to be used by acaregiver or parent who uses the spoon to feed a disabled person or ayoung person with underdeveloped motor skills.

U.S. Patent Publication No. 2003/0082279, Chan, depicts an ice creamcone-shaped confectionery product in which the first hard candy isshaped like soft-serve ice cream, and the handle, made to resemble anice cream cone, is hollow packaging filled with a powder or particulatesecond confectionery. The consumer shakes the product, protected with alid, to adhere the interior fluid candy to the exterior surface of thehard candy.

III. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present application discloses a novel confectionery dispensingproduct in light of the aforementioned references. Specifically, thepresent invention features a solid confectionery retaining combinationwith a compressible liquid chamber housing a fluid confectionery ontowhich a collar, having integrally formed thereon a nozzle which, uponcompression, dispenses liquid onto the outer surface of the solidconfectionery.

It is an object of the present invention is to provide a novelconfectionery dispensing product having an axially offset dispensingnozzle to the solid confection.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a novel,unitary confectionery dispensing product that combines a liquid andsolid confectionery.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a novel deliveryconfectionery system to allow for controlled coating of a hardconfectionery with a liquid confectionery.

A further object of the present invention is to provide a confectionerydispensing product that is resealable for further use after opening.

Yet another object of the present invention is to provide aconfectionery dispensing product having a bottle, collar, nozzle, andconfectionery components that are visually and dimensionallycustomizable.

Still a further object of the present invention is to provide a methodfor dispensing a liquid confectionery onto a solid confectionery with amultiple component confectionery dispensing product that is used as oneunit.

These and other objects are satisfied by a multiple componentconfectionery delivery product for dispensing a flowable liquidconfectionery onto the surface of a solid confectionery, comprising: ahollow elongated base defining at least one compressible liquidconfectionery chamber having walls, a closed end, and an open enddefined by a neck, said compressible liquid chamber holding a liquidconfectionery, said neck extending from the end of the hollow elongatedbase and having a matingly engageable outer surface, a collared lidhaving an interior surface dimensioned to sealingly matingly engage withsaid outer surface of said neck, said collared lid including anexteriorly exposed surface conformed to cover the open end of the basewhen the collared lid is engaged with said neck, a solid confectionerymounting protruding from the exteriorly exposed surface, and a nozzleintegrally formed on and projecting from said exteriorly exposed surfaceand adjacent to said solid confectionery mounting, said nozzle formingan axial throughway and providing fluid communication with the interiorof said compressible liquid confectionery chamber when said collared lidis secured to the neck of the elongated base; a solid confectionery witha base portion and a liquid receiving portion projecting therefrom, saidsolid confectionery base portion being affixed to said solidconfectionery mounting and said liquid receiving portion positioned toreceive liquid confection from said nozzle upon compression of saidliquid confectionery chamber; a cover sized to encase said solidconfectionery liquid receiving portion and sealingly engage with anexterior surface of said collared lid; and a nozzle plug conformed toseal the axial throughway of the nozzle.

Further objects are satisfied by a confectionery product for delivery ofa liquid confectionery onto an outer surface of a solid confectionery,comprising: a compressible liquid chamber housing a liquid confectioner,said chamber including an open end defined by a neck having a threadedexterior surface, compressible chamber walls, and a base; a collaredlid, having an interior threaded surface to be matably engageable withsaid exterior surface of said compressible liquid chamber neck, a solidconfectionery mounting element defining a first select configuration,and a nozzle to provide fluid communication with the interior of thecompressible liquid chamber when the collared lid is engaged with saidcompressible liquid chamber neck; a solid confectionery with a mountingbase and a liquid confection receiving surface, said mounting basedimensionally conforming to said first select configuration to establishan interference fit to said sold confectionery mounting element; a coverdimensioned and conformed to sealably engage with an exterior surface ofsaid collared lid, and overlie the solid confectionery, said coverhaving formed integrally thereon a plug member conformed for insertioninto the nozzle and obstruct fluid communication with the interior ofthe compressible fluid chamber when the cover is engaged with thecollared lid.

The foregoing and still other objects are satisfied by a method forusing a multiple component confectionery delivery product for a liquidfood product and a solid food where the multiple component confectionerydelivery product includes a liquid-confection containing compressiblebase defining at least a closed end and threaded neck with an open endprojecting from the compressible elongated base, a collared lid having athreaded interior surface to sealingly engage with the threaded neck,the collared lid dimensioned to cover the open end of the compressiblebase when the collared lid is threadingly secured to the neck, thecollard lid further defining a protruding solid confectionery mountingand an integrated projecting nozzle adjacent to the solid confectionerymounting member, said nozzle forming an axial throughway and providingfluid communication from the liquid-confection containing compressiblebase; a solid confectionery affixed to the solid confectionery mountingmember with a liquid confection receiving surface portion projectingtherefrom proximate to the nozzle; and a cover dimensioned to enclosethe solid confectionery upon engagement with the collared lid, saidcover including an insertable nozzle plug conformed to seal the axialthroughway of the nozzle when said cover is engaged with the collaredlid, said method comprising the steps of: disengaging the cover from thecollared lid to remove the nozzle plug from the nozzle; compressing theliquid-confection containing compressible base to induce flow of anddispense the liquid confectionery from the base through the nozzle andonto the liquid confection receiving surface portion of the solidconfectionery; consuming at least a portion of the solid confection withthe liquid confection dispensed thereon; and reengaging the cover withthe collared lid to enclose unconsumed solid confectionery and toreinsert the plug into the nozzle.

The invention provides a further embodiment to any one of the previousembodiments characterized in that the nozzle is formed on saidexteriorly exposed surface at a location axially offset from themidpoint of said exteriorly exposed surface.

The invention provides a further embodiment to any one of the previousembodiments characterized in that the nozzle incorporates aflow-controlling dispensing valve.

The invention provides a further embodiment to any one of the previousembodiments characterized in that nozzle plug is integrally formed on asurface of the cover.

The invention provides a further embodiment to any one of the previousembodiments characterized in that the nozzle plug is disposed on aninterior surface of the cover

The invention provides a further embodiment to any one of the previousembodiments characterized in that the solid confectionery and the liquidconfectionery chamber are substantially co-aligned along a singlevertical axis.

The invention provides a further embodiment to any one of the previousembodiments characterized in the neck and collared lid are matinglyengagable by way of a snap fit or coacting threading.

The invention provides a further embodiment to any one of the previousembodiments characterized in that the collared lid further includes alip projecting from its lower edge dimensioned to abut and be secured tothe collared lid by an interference fit.

The invention provides a further embodiment to any one of the previousembodiments characterized in that the cover is tethered with arestraining strap.

The invention provides a further embodiment to any one of the previousembodiments characterized in that the confectionery delivery productrepresents a three-dimensional characterization of a human, an animal,fictional, or animated character.

The invention provides a further embodiment to any one of the previousembodiments characterized in that an exterior surface of the collaredlid is molded to comprise the likeness of a one of a human face, ananimal face, a fictional being or a cartoon character.

The invention provides a further embodiment to any one of the previousembodiments characterized in that the cover comprises the likeness ofthe head of a select character or head covering.

The invention provides a further embodiment to any one of the previousembodiments characterized in that liquid confectionery chamber comprisesa body configuration of molded to resemble at least a torso of any oneof a human, an animal, a fictional or a cartoon character

The invention provides a further embodiment to any one of the previousembodiments characterized in that the solid confectionery is molded toresemble a human tongue.

The invention provides a further embodiment to any one of the previousembodiments characterized in that the exterior surface of the cover ismolded or printed with the likeness of a face of any one of a human, ananimal, or a cartoon character

The present invention relates to a novelty confectionery productcombining a flavored liquid confectionery in a compressible chamber anda solid confectionery affixed to a mounting cap which seals thecompressible chamber. The invention provides a unique delivery systemfor liquid confectionery onto a solid confectionery in a solitary unit.Compression of the compressible liquid chamber expels the liquidconfectionery onto an adjacent outer surface of the mounted solidconfectionery. The product is resealable, enabling the consumer to savesome of the product for later consumption if they do not wish to eat itimmediately after opening. The improved design aids in minimizingspills. The design enables users of various ages and physical abilitiesto independently enjoy the confectionery product due to its ease of use.

Particular terminology used herein is for the purpose of describingparticular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of theinvention and is intended to mean the following:

References to “one embodiment”, “an embodiment”, or “in embodiments”mean that the feature being referred to is included in at least oneembodiment of the invention. Moreover, separate references to “oneembodiment”, “an embodiment”, or “embodiments” do not necessarily referto the same embodiment; however, neither are such embodiments mutuallyexclusive, unless so stated, and except as will be readily apparent tothose skilled in the art. Thus, the invention can include any variety ofcombinations and/or integrations of the embodiments described herein.

As used herein, the singular forms, “a”, “an” and “the” are intended toinclude the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicatesotherwise. It will be further understood that the root terms “include”and/or “have”, when used in this specification, specify the presence ofstated features, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but donot preclude the presence or addition of at least one other feature,step, operation, element, component, and/or groups thereof.

As used herein, the term “affixed” refers to the attachment of acomponent of the invention to another component of the invention. Forexample, the solid confectionery is affixed to the solid confectionerymounting by secure frictional engagement, for example by interferencefit. Alternatively, “affixed” can mean permanent attachment to theconfectionery mounting by mechanical attachment. Further alternativesinclude attachment by means including ultrasonic welding or gluing.

As used herein, the term “collar” refers to a component of an embodimentof the invention that engages with the compressible fluid chamber andhas integrally formed thereon the nozzle. For example, the component canbe a cap collar, screw top closure, snap cap, lid, overlay, seal, crown,cover, top, stopper, etc. In addition to engagement means, the collarmay vary in dimension, shape, or size. For example, the collar may becircular, oval, or square, and conformed to engage sealingly with thechamber neck having corresponding dimensions.

As used herein, the terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “includes,”“including,” “has,” “having” or any other variation thereof, areintended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process,method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of features is notnecessarily limited only to those features but may include otherfeatures not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method,article, or apparatus.

As used herein, and unless expressly stated to the contrary, “or” refersto an inclusive-or and not to an exclusive-or. For example, a conditionA or B is satisfied by any one of the following: A is true (or present)and B is false (or not present), A is false (or not present) and B istrue (or present), and both A and B are true (or present).

As used herein “substantially,” “generally,” and other words of degreeare relative modifiers intended to indicate permissible variation fromthe characteristic so modified. It is not intended to be limited to theabsolute value or characteristic which it modifies but rather possessingmore of the physical or functional characteristic than its opposite, andpreferably, approaching or approximating such a physical or functionalcharacteristic.

Embodiments of the invention are depicted in FIGS. 1-8 attached hereto.The accompanying illustrations in FIGS. 1-8 depict exemplary embodimentsof the invention. It should be understood by those skilled in the artthat many modifications and embodiments of the invention will come tomind to which the invention pertains, having benefit of the teachingpresented in the foregoing description and associated drawings. It istherefore understood that the invention is not limited to the specificembodiment disclosed herein, and that many modifications and otherembodiments of the invention are intended to be included within thescope of the invention. Moreover, although specific terms are employedherein, they are used only in generic and descriptive sense, and not forthe purposes of limiting the invention.

Given the following description of the drawings, the inventive multiplecomponent confectionery delivery product should become evident to aperson of ordinary skill in the art.

IV. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a partial cross-sectional cutaway side view of the multiplecomponent confectionery delivery product according to an embodiment ofthe invention.

FIG. 2 illustrates an exploded perspective view of the multiplecomponent confectionery delivery product according to the FIG. 1embodiment of the invention

FIG. 3 illustrates a top view of a collar of the multiple componentconfectionery delivery product according to the FIG. 1 embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 4 illustrates a sectional side view of the collar of the multiplecomponent confectionery delivery product according to the FIG. 1embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 5 illustrates a rear view of the multiple component confectionerydelivery product according to a second embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 6 illustrates a front view of the multiple component confectionerydelivery product according to the second embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 7 illustrates a side view of the multiple component confectionerydelivery product according to the second embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 8 illustrates a top view of the multiple component confectionerydelivery product according to the second embodiment of the invention.

V. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

With reference now to the drawings, in particular to FIGS. 1-8 thereof,apparatuses of a multiple component confectionery delivery product,embodying features, principles, and concepts of the multiple componentconfectionery delivery product invention are described.

FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a first embodiment of a multiplecomponent confectionery delivery product 10 according to the inventionincluding a hollow elongated base 12 housing a compressible liquidchamber into which a liquid confectionery 14 can be removably housed.The hollow elongated base 12 is molded out of a thin deformable plasticsuch as polyvinyl chloride (PVC), low-density polyethylene (LDPE),high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), orany other substance known or used in the art.

A neck 16 projects from the open end of the compressible liquid chamber12 opposite to its closed end. The neck 16 has a threaded outer surface18 which engages with a threaded interior surface 22 of a collared lid20. Threaded engagement creates a pressure resistant seal between theexternal environment and the compressible liquid chamber inside thehollow elongated base 12 such that compression of the compressibleliquid chamber forces the liquid confectionery 14 from within the hollowelongated base 12 out through the axial throughway of the nozzle 28.Alternative to a threaded engagement, the collared lid in certainembodiments may be secured to the neck 16 of the hollow elongated base12 through any known securing means, such as a snap fit, an interferencefit, glue on, or ultrasonic welding. In such an embodiment, the surfacesof the collared lid and the neck would not be threaded, and insteadwould be equipped with appropriate structures, such as annularprojections or recesses to enable a sealing closure.

Integrally formed on the exteriorly exposed surface 24 of the collaredlid 20 are a solid confectionery mounting 26 and a nozzle 28. The hardcandy mounting 26 comprises a wall onto a portion of which the nozzle 28is molded. The nozzle 28 has an axial throughway that enables fluidcommunication with the interior of the compressible liquid chamber whenthe collared lid 20 is sealably engaged with the neck 16.

The nozzle 28 in certain embodiments is molded to an exterior surface ofa wall of the hard candy mounting 26 such that expression of the liquidconfectionery 14 from the compressible liquid chamber through the nozzle28 results in coating of the adjacent exterior surface of a solidconfectionery candy 30 that is affixed to the hard candy mounting 26. Inan alternative embodiment, the nozzle 28 is formed on the exteriorlyexposed surface 24 independently of the wall of the solid confectionerymounting 26 though still located sufficiently proximately on theexteriorly exposed surface 24 to enable discharge of the liquidconfectionery 14 onto an adjacent exterior surface of the solidconfectionery 30 upon compression of the compressible liquid chamber.

The solid confectionery 30 installed in the solid confectionery mounting26 can be, for example, a chocolate or a hard candy. The hard candy canbe manufactured by any known candy manufacturing method. For example, alow-water content sugar mixture is heated to a sufficient temperature tobe formed into a taffy-like consistency, flavoring and coloring isadded, and then is run through a roller and cut to make blanks. Theblanks are stamped or molded to be formed into the desired productshape. This method of candy-making allows for a virtually unlimitedvariety in candy shape and configuration.

The solid confectionery 30 is engaged with the solid confectionerymounting 26 in such a fit that it does not become dislodged during theconsumption of the product. This can be for example with aninterference/friction fit. This requires the solid confectionery 30which engages with the solid confectionery mounting 26 to occupy theentire area of the mounting, such that the side and base surfaces of thesolid confectionery are in a frictional interference contact with theinterior surface of the walls of the solid confectionery mounting 26.The solid confectionery 30 in some embodiments of the invention issecured in the mounting 26 while in the cooling/hardening process toenhance bonding to the interior wall surface of the solid confectionerymounting 30 when fully cooled/hardened.

The solid confectionery 30 can be of virtually any shape, size, orconfiguration. The solid confectionery 30 may be molded to portray alikeness to a celebrity, an animal, or a cartoon character, for example.In some embodiments, due to the secure frictional engagement fit in thesolid confectionery mounting 26, the solid confectionery 30 does notrequire securement to the solid confectionery mounting 26 via pins ornipples.

A cover 32 fits over the solid confectionery 30 to protect it fromadverse ambient conditions, including environmental contagions. Thecover 32 when secured to the collared lid 20 abuts a lip 25 whichestablishes a perimetric annulus from the lower end of the collared lid20. Additionally, the cover 32 features a nozzle plug 34. When the cover32 is secured by its base fitting securely over the exterior surface ofthe collared lid 20, the nozzle plug 34 obstructs the axial throughwayof the nozzle 28 to prevent further release of the liquid confectionery14 from the compressible liquid chamber in the hollow elongated base 12.In certain embodiments, the cover 32 is molded to include a nozzlehousing 36 dimensioned to fit the height and circumference of the nozzle28 projecting from the exteriorly exposed surface 24, and which hasintegrally formed on its interior surface the nozzle plug 34.Alternatively, the cover 32 may enclose only the solid confectionery 30,and a separate nozzle housing may be conformed to fit the nozzle 28 andinclude on its interior surface the nozzle plug 34. The engagement ofthe base of the cover 32 with the collared lid 20 can be an interferencefit, a threaded fit, a mating interlockable fit, a bayonet joint, or anyother fit known or used in the art. The fit should be sufficientlysecure to not be disturbed by compression of the compressible liquidchamber, resulting in dislodgement of the nozzle plug 34 and release ofthe liquid confectionery 14.

The liquid confectionery 14 stored within the compressible liquidchamber can be any flowable fluid confectionery. For example, it mayhave the consistency of a honey or syrup, or a thicker, gel-like orpaste-like consistency. It may be of a thinner liquid consistency, forexample the consistency of water or juice. Embodiments of the inventionwill be suited to adapt to the specific consistency of the liquidconfectionery 14. This may involve, for example, the inclusion of aone-way pressure actuated valve, such as a Heimlich valve, within thenozzle 28 to reduce air backflow into the liquid chamber. Alternatively,the valve could be inverted to inhibit the unwanted flow of alow-viscosity liquid from unintentionally escaping from the liquidchamber.

FIG. 2 illustrates in detail an exploded view of a first embodiment ofthe multiple component confectionery delivery product 10. The hollowelongated base 12 has an open end defined by a neck 16 with a threadedouter surface 18. The solid confectionery 30 in FIG. 2 has the likenessof a tongue, however the solid confectionery may take any form. Thesolid confectionery mounting 26 should be conformed to fit thedimensions of the lower portion of the solid confectionery 30. The solidconfectionery 30 is highly customizable and can be adapted in dimensionand appearance to coordinate with the external packaging shape andoverall appearance or theme of the product.

FIG. 3 illustrates a top view of the collared lid 20, exteriorly exposedsurface 24, lip 25, solid confectionery mounting 26, and nozzle 28according to an embodiment of the invention. The perimeter of the solidconfectionery mounting 26 may be indented or fabiform in shape toprovide enhanced strength and reliance of the interference fit with thesolid confectionery 30. The nozzle 28 and confectionery mounting 26 maybe molded to resemble the appearance of a face, for example a human faceto coordinate with the tongue-shaped solid confectionery as shown inFIG. 2 . In certain embodiments, the exterior of the nozzle 28 may bemolded to have the appearance of a nose.

FIG. 4 illustrates a sectional side view of an embodiment of theinvention. The exterior surface of the collared lid 20 may featureprojections 27 and recesses 29 as in the embodiment illustrated in FIG.4 to enable a snap fit engagement between the collared lid 20 and thecover 32 which would have projections and recesses coordinated to fitinto the projections and recesses of the exterior surface of thecollared lid 20.

FIGS. 5-8 illustrate various views of a second embodiment of themultiple component confectionery delivery product invention wherein thedimensions of the hollow elongated base 12 of the multiple componentconfectionery delivery product 10 depict a human body dressed in a longcoat. This embodiment has a specific vertical orientation consistentwith the configuration of the molded character, with the base 12oriented below and molded to resemble a body, and the cover 32 andcollared lid 20 disposed above the molded base 12. In furtherembodiments, the base 12 may be molded in any desired shape or figure.Further, the collared lid 20 and cover 32 portions may be molded in anydesired shape or figure, and may be molded to visually and thematicallycoordinate with the shape of the base 12.

FIG. 5 illustrates a rear view of a second embodiment showing the backof the base 12. The cover 32 incorporates a nozzle housing 36 such thatthe cover 32 encloses the entire surface of the exteriorly exposedsurface 24. This embodiment includes an alternative lip 25A. The lip 25Ais visible projecting perpendicularly from the lower edge of thecollared lid 20, against which the bottom of the cover 32 abuts when thecover 32 is affixed to the collared lid 20.

FIG. 6 illustrates a front view of a second embodiment of the invention.The detachable cover 32 is dimensioned to cover the hard candy 30 andmay be dimensioned to accommodate the nozzle in the nozzle housing 36portion. The nozzle housing 36 has a wider diameter than the top of thecover 32 to provide for the width and height dimensions of the nozzle.FIG. 7 more clearly depicts the downward radial expansion from the topof the cover 32 to the nozzle housing 36 and to the cover base, which isdimensioned to fit securely via interference fit over the collared lid20 abutting against the lip 25A. In an alternative embodiment, the baseof the cover 32 may be secured to the exterior of the collared lid 20via a snap fit engagement, a mating threaded engagement, or a bayonetjoint.

FIG. 8 illustrates a top view of a second embodiment of the multiplecomponent confectionery delivery product including the cover 32, andbase 12 molded human body shoulders and shoes. In further embodiments,the base 12 may be molded or shaped to depict any shape or human,animal, or cartoon likeness.

In view of the foregoing description, without departing from the intentof the invention which employs a customized cover and liquid containerthat conform to the likeness of a celebrity, such as a musician,athlete, or notable public figure. The compact profile of the inventionand customizable nature would lend itself to application as apromotional article at ball games, concerts, etc. Once the confectionerycontents of the product are consumed or depleted, the remaining productpackaging can be converted to a collectible figurine, the collar,chamber, and cover portions of which can be similarly dimensioned andswapped interchangeably for a mix-and-match collection. Youngerconsumers can collect and swap figurines, encouraging the purchase ofall available models for the most complete collection.

In another embodiment, the cover may be tethered to the compressiblefluid container or assuming the geometries are appropriate, hingedlyaffixed to the collared lid.

The foregoing embodiments are examples that are not to meant be limitingof the present invention, variations of which are contemplated to bewithin the description and/or scope thereof given the foregoing. Thoseskilled in the art should appreciate that various adaptations andmodifications of the example and alternative embodiments described abovecan be devised without departing from the scope and spirit of theinvention. Therefore, it is to be understood that, within the scope ofthe claims, the invention may be practiced other than as specificallydescribed herein.

The utility of the invention is directed to confectionery productproduction and enjoyment. The invention provides a new unitaryconfectionary holder and dispenser that both holds and stores a mountedconfectionery product and a deformable container containing an ediblefluid; where the fluid is dispensed by user control directly onto theconfectionary through an axially offset nozzle to allow the userenjoyment of the combined confection.

VI. PARTS LIST

-   10—Multiple component confectionery delivery product-   12—Hollow elongated base-   14—Liquid confectionery-   16—Neck-   18—Threaded outer surface-   20—Collared lid-   22—Threaded interior surface-   24—Exteriorly exposed surface-   25—Lip-   25A—Alternative lip-   26—Solid confectionery mounting-   27—Projection-   28—Nozzle-   29—Recesses-   30—Solid confectionery-   32—Cover-   34—Nozzle plug-   36—Nozzle housing

I claim:
 1. A method for providing a resealable multiple componentconfectionery delivery product for dispensing a flowable liquidconfectionery onto the surface of a solid confectionery, comprising thesteps of: providing a hollow elongated base defining at least onecompressible liquid confectionery chamber having walls, a closed end,and an open end defined by a neck, said at least one compressible liquidchamber holding a liquid confectionery, said neck extending from theopen end of the hollow base and having a matingly engageable outersurface, providing a collared lid having an interior surface dimensionedto sealingly matingly engage with said matingly engagable outer surfaceof said neck, said collared lid including an exteriorly exposed surfaceconformed to cover the open end of the hollow base when the collared lidis engaged with said neck, a solid confectionery mounting protrudingfrom the exteriorly exposed surface, and a nozzle integrally formed onand projecting from said exteriorly exposed surface and adjacent to saidsolid confectionery mounting, said nozzle forming an axial throughwayand providing fluid communication with the interior of said at least onecompressible liquid confectionery chamber when said collared lid issecured to the neck of the hollow base; providing a solid confectionerywith a base portion and a liquid receiving portion projecting therefrom,said solid confectionery base portion being affixed to said solidconfectionery mounting and said liquid receiving portion positioned toreceive liquid confection from said nozzle upon compression of said atleast one compressible liquid confectionery chamber; and providing acover sized to encase said solid confectionery liquid receiving portionand sealingly engage with an exterior surface of said collared lid; anda nozzle plug conformed to seal the axial throughway of the nozzle whereengaging the cover to said collared lid reseals the solid confectioneryand nozzle to prevent delivery of said liquid confectionery.
 2. Themethod of providing the resealable multiple component confectionerydelivery product of claim 1, wherein said nozzle is formed on saidexteriorly exposed surface at a location axially offset from themidpoint of said exteriorly exposed surface.
 3. The method of providingthe resealable multiple component confectionery delivery product ofclaim 1, said nozzle having a flow-controlling dispensing valve.
 4. Themethod of providing the resealable multiple component confectionerydelivery product of claim 1, wherein said interior surface of saidcollared lid and said matingly engageable outer surface of said neck areengageable via a threaded fit.
 5. The method of providing the resealablemultiple component confectionery delivery product of claim 1, whereinsaid interior surface of said collared lid and said matingly engageableouter surface of said neck are engageable via a snap fit.
 6. The methodof providing the resealable multiple component confectionery deliveryproduct of claim 1, wherein said collared lid further includes a lipprojecting from a lower edge of said collared lid to abut a bottom edgeof said cover when said cover is attached to said collared lid.
 7. Themethod of providing the resealable multiple component confectionerydelivery product of claim 1, wherein said nozzle plug is integrallyformed on a surface of said cover and said cover encloses the entiresurface area of said exteriorly exposed surface.
 8. The method ofproviding the resealable multiple component confectionery deliveryproduct of claim 1, wherein said cover is attachable to said collaredlid by an interference fit.
 9. The method of providing the resealablemultiple component confectionery delivery product of claim 1, whereinsaid cover is attachable to said collared lid by an annular snap fit.10. The method of providing the resealable multiple componentconfectionery delivery product of claim 1, wherein said hollow base iselongate, said collared lid, and said detachable cover have asubstantially cylindrical profile when assembled.
 11. The method ofproviding the resealable multiple component confectionery deliveryproduct of claim 1, wherein said solid confectionery is affixed to saidsolid confectionery mounting with an interference fit.
 12. The method ofproviding the resealable multiple component confectionery deliveryproduct of claim 1, wherein said solid confectionery is molded toresemble a human tongue.
 13. The method of providing the resealablemultiple component confectionery delivery product of claim 1, whereinsaid solid confectionary is a hard candy and said hollow elongated baseare substantially co-aligned along a single vertical axis.
 14. Themethod of providing the resealable multiple component confectionerydelivery product of claim 1, wherein said nozzle plug is disposed on aninterior surface of said cover.
 15. The method of providing theresealable multiple component confectionery delivery product of claim 1,wherein the hollow elongated base is shaped to resemble any one of ahuman, an animal, and a cartoon character.
 16. The method of providingthe resealable multiple component confectionery delivery product ofclaim 1 wherein an exterior surface of the collared lid resembles anyone of a human face, an animal face, and a cartoon character face. 17.The method of providing the resealable multiple component confectionerydelivery product of claim 1, wherein an exterior surface of the cover ismolded or printed with the likeness of a face of any one of a human, ananimal, or a cartoon character.
 18. A method of providing a resealableconfectionery product comprising the steps of: providing a compressibleliquid chamber housing a liquid confectionary, said compressible liquidchamber including an open end defined by a neck having a threadedexterior surface, compressible chamber walls, and a base; providing acollared lid, having an interior threaded surface to be matablyengageable with said exterior surface of said compressible liquidchamber neck, a solid confectionery mounting element defining a firstselect configuration, and a fixedly positioned nozzle to provide fluidcommunication with the interior of the compressible liquid chamber whenthe collared lid is engaged with said compressible liquid chamber neck;providing a solid confectionery with a mounting base and a liquidconfection receiving surface, said mounting base dimensionallyconforming to said first select configuration to establish aninterference fit to said solid confectionery mounting element; andproviding a cover dimensioned and conformed to sealably engage with anexterior surface of said collared lid, and overlie the solidconfectionery, said cover having formed integrally thereon a plug memberconformed for insertion into the nozzle and obstruct fluid communicationwith the interior of the compressible liquid chamber when the cover isengaged with the collared lid to reseal the nozzle and solidconfectionery and prevent delivery of said liquid confectionery.
 19. Amethod for using a multiple component confectionery delivery product fora liquid confection product and a solid confection where the multiplecomponent confectionery delivery product includes a liquid-confectionproduct containing compressible base defining at least a closed end anda threaded neck with an open end projecting from the liquid-confectionproduct containing compressible base, a collared lid having a threadedinterior surface to sealingly engage with the threaded neck, thecollared lid dimensioned to cover the open end of the compressible basewhen the collared lid is threadingly secured to the threaded neck, thecollard lid further defining a protruding solid confection mounting andan integrated projecting nozzle adjacent to the protruding solidconfection mounting member, said integrated projecting nozzle forming anaxial throughway and providing fluid communication from theliquid-confection product containing compressible base; a solidconfection affixed to the protruding solid confection mounting memberwith a liquid confection product receiving surface portion projectingtherefrom proximate to the integrated projecting nozzle; and a coverdimensioned to enclose the solid confection upon engagement with thecollared lid, said cover including an insertable nozzle plug conformedto seal the axial throughway of the integrated projecting nozzle whensaid cover is engaged with the collared lid, said method comprising thesteps of: disengaging the cover from the collared lid to remove theinsertable nozzle plug from the integrated projecting nozzle;compressing the liquid-confection product containing compressible baseto induce flow of and dispense the liquid confection product from thebase through the integrated projecting nozzle and onto the liquidconfection product receiving surface portion of the solid confection;consuming at least a portion of the solid confection with the liquidconfection product dispensed thereon, and reengaging the cover with thecollared lid to reseal unconsumed solid confectionery and to reinsertthe insertable nozzle plug into the integrated projecting nozzle.